Polydispersity Index Values Research Articles

Eco-friendly Nanostructured Liquid Crystals Loaded with Clove Oil as a Sustainable Approach for Managing Infected Burn Wounds

Infections are a leading complication in patients with burns. Effective antimicrobial treatment with regenerative tissue healing is required. Utilizing components derived from plant origin such as natural oils as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach for managing disease is highly required nowadays. The aim of the current study is to assess the antibacterial and wound-healing activity of clove oil and its novel eco-friendly nanostructured liquid crystals (Eco-friendly-NLCs) formulation in treating infected burn wounds. A 23 full factorial design was used to optimize the Eco-friendly-NLCs. Clove oil and its novel nano-formulation were characterized and subjected to in vitro and in vivo assessments for their efficacy. Twenty rats were used experimentally. The optimum Eco-friendly-NLCs had 189.2 ± 1.9 nm, -22.8 ± 0.7 mV and 0.308 as values for particle size, zeta potential and polydispersity index. Transmission electron microscope images showed discrete spherical shape NLCs with no aggregations. The microbiological and pharmacological results revealed a superior efficacy regarding clove loaded Eco-friendly-NLCs in inhibiting bacterial growth (inhibition zone of 38 mm), significantly reducing inflammatory biomarker levels (p < 0.001), promoting angiogenesis and prompt wound healing. The Eco-friendly-NLCs loaded with clove oil could be considered as a promising formulation providing anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and wound healing effects.Graphical

Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Capacity and Bioavailability of Whey Protein Concentrate-Based Coenzyme Q10 Nanoparticles

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability still remain challenges for its application. An embedded delivery system of CoQ10 based on whey protein concentrate (WPC) and polymerized whey protein concentrate (PWPC) was prepared, and the physicochemical properties, antioxidant capacity and bioavailability were characterized in this study. Both groups of nanoparticles showed a particle size distribution from 241 to 331 nm in the protein-to-CoQ10 mass ratio range of 100:1 to 20:1. In addition, the minimum polydispersity index value was observed at the mass ratio of 20:1. Differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis revealed that the CoQ10 was successfully dispersed in the WPC and PWPC particles through hydrophobic interaction in both groups in addition to the hydrogen bond present in the WPC group. All nanoparticles exhibited irregular spherical or aggregate structure in the transmission electron microscopy diagram. The PWPC-based nanoparticles showed a slightly higher antioxidant capacity than that of the WPC, and both values were significantly higher than that of its corresponding physical mixture and free CoQ10 (p &lt; 0.05). The results of the simulated gastrointestinal digestion experiments denoted that these two nanoparticles could protect CoQ10 from gastric digestion and then deliver it to the intestine. Compared with its free state, the bioavailability of CoQ10 embedded in WPC and PWPC increased by nearly 7.58 times and 7.48 times, respectively. The data indicated that WPC and PWPC could be effective delivery carriers to enhance the bioavailability of active substances like CoQ10.

Synthesis and Characterization of Thermosensitive Nanosupports with Core–Shell Structure (PSt-PNIPAM) and Their Application with Silver Nanoparticles

The present study synthesized silver nanoparticles supported on a thermosensitive polymer with a core–shell structure, formed by a polystyrene (PS) core and a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM)/Poly(N, N-methylenebisacrylamide) (MBA) shell. The PS core was synthesized via semicontinuous heterophase polymerization at a flow of 0.073 g/min, enabling polystyrene nanoparticles with an average size (Dz) of 35.2 nm to be obtained. In the next stage, the conditions required for polymerization synthesis were established in seeded microemulsion using PS nanoparticles as seed and semicontinuously adding the thermosensitive shell monomer (PNIPAM/MBA) under monomer-flooded conditions to favor shell formation. The non-homopolymerization of PNIPAM/MBA was demonstrated by obtaining nanoparticles with a core–shell structure, with average particle sizes of 41 nm and extremely low and narrow polydispersity index (PDI) values (1.1). The thermosensitive behavior was analyzed by QLS, revealing an average shrinkage of 4.03 nm and a percentage of shrinkage of 23.7%. Finally, silver nanoparticles were synthesized on the core–shell heat-sensitive nanoparticles in a colloidal solution containing the latices, while silver nanoparticles were anchored onto the cross-linked heat-sensitive network via the formation of complexes between the Ag+ ions and the nitrogen contained in the PNIPAM/MBA network, favoring anchorage around the network and maintaining a size of 5 nm.

Enhancing the Cytotoxic Effects of Carboplatin and Cisplatin on Liposomes in Oral Cancer Cells with Curcumin

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma remains challenging to treat effectively with conventional chemotherapy, leading researchers to explore synergistic combinations to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Combining curcumin with platinum-based drugs, such as cisplatin and carboplatin, has demonstrated potential in enhancing cytotoxic effects. However, limited studies have explored these combinations’ efficacy and sustained release profile in liposomal form specifically for oral cancer. This study investigates the enhanced cytotoxic effects of cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposome formulations on CAL 27 oral cancer cells. Methods and Materials: Nanoliposomes encapsulating cisplatin or carboplatin with curcumin were formulated and characterized by particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI) to ensure optimized delivery properties. Particle sizes of the cisplatin and carboplatin nanoliposomes ranged from 175 to 187 nm, with a zeta potential greater than -30 mV, indicating good stability, and PDI values less than 0.48, suggesting uniform particle size distribution. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay at 24, 48, and 96 hours across different curcumin concentrations. Results: Cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposome formulations demonstrated significantly increased cytotoxicity in CAL 27 cells compared to control groups. Drug release studies indicated a sustained release profile, with approximately 22% of cisplatin and 28% of carboplatin released over 52 hours, which may prolong therapeutic effects by maintaining drug availability within the cancer cells. Conclusion: The findings suggest that cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposomal formulations enhance the cytotoxic effects of these chemotherapeutic agents while providing a stable, sustained release profile.

Green biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles: a thoroughly exploration of characterization and biological efficacy

Conventional physical and chemical methods for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) often use reducing agents, and other chemicals that are harmful to the environment because of their toxic properties. This has prompted significant concern and the need to develop environmentally acceptable approaches. Due to the constraints of traditional chemicalphysical methods, green synthesis methods are being developed to fill these gaps by utilizing biological components extracted from plants. These plant-derived biomolecules are highly specific and facilitate the creation of metal nanoparticles. AgNPs, produced through these methods, possess a wide variety of metabolites with antibacterial effects. In light of this, the current investigation aimed to produce AgNPs using aqueous extracts obtained from Moringa leaves (Ml), Juniper leaves (Jl), and Juniper beans (Jb)via a green chemistry technique. Various analytical methods, including UV-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, were employed to characterize the synthesized AgNPs. After adding the plant extracts, the color of the aqueous silver nitrate solution noticeably changed to brown. Furthermore, a shift in absorption spectra was noted, with absorbance peaks appearing around λmax = 449.5 nm, 478.5 nm, and 440.5 nm for Juniper leaves, Jb, and Moringa extracts, respectively. DLS analysis revealed that the synthesized AgNPs varied in size and polydispersity index (PDI) values, with sizes of 108 nm (PDI = 0.246), 101 nm (PDI = 0.278), and 161 nm (PDI = 0.240) form Jl, Jb, and Ml extracts, respectively. These nanoparticles displayed no agglomeration and were stable over a long period. Transmission electron microscope/TEM analysis confirmed the synthesis of well/dispersed AgNPs with an average sizes of less than 22 nm, displaying different shapes likely due to the variety of capping agents present in the bean and leaf extracts. Elemental profiles showed a peak at 3 keV for the synthesized AgNPs, indicating a high proportion of silver elements in all three samples. The synthesized nanoparticles were also subjected to biological screening. The investigation involved testing their antibacterial activity against various bacterial and fungal strains. The Jlnano extract exhibited significant antifungal activity. Conversely, the aqueous and nano-extracts of Ml showed less effectiveness against fungal growth. The plant nano extracts, in particular, demonstrated a clearer effect against all tested fungi compared to the plant aqueous extracts. Among the AgNPs synthesized, those from Moringa extract had the greatest effect on Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus), with an inhibitory zone diameter of 4.5 mm.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Antifungal Potential

Abstract: Metallic nanoparticles, specifically silver nanoparticles, find huge applications in health, medicine, and drug delivery. However, the physical and chemical synthesis methods pose challenges regarding gener, action of toxic by-products, or high energy requirements. Hence biosynthetic approaches have gained interest in the last few years utilizing various sources including yeast, fungi, bacteria, or plant extracts containing reducing and capping agents like quercetin, apocyanin, gallic acid, alkaloids, tannins, etc. The present review would throw light on plant extracts containing such reducing and capping agents for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles, including the phytofactors and physicochemical parameters affecting the synthetic methods. Further characterization concerning the polydispersity index (ranging from 0-1) and zeta potential values (stable nanoparticles with ranges &gt;+30 mV or &lt;-30 mV) for improving stability would also be discussed. The potential and applications of silver based nanohybrids or nanocomposites will be described. The antibacterial potential of silver nanoparticles has been shown in previous reviews. Antifungal potential of biosynthetic silver nanoparticles obtained from plant extracts like Croton sparsiflorus morong leaf extract or aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) pit evaluated on fungal strains will be illustrated in the present review. The underlying mechanism for the antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles will also be discussed. At the conclusion, the list of patents on biosynthetic silver nanoparticles and the limitations and regulatory guidelines for commercial production will be illustrated.

FORMULATION AND IN VITRO TESTS OF KETOPROFEN NANOSUSPENSION USING THE MILLING METHOD WITH POLYMER VARIATIONS

Objective: The aim of this research was to formulate ketoprofen nanosuspension with a variety of polymers and to compare the dissolution rate of the nanosuspensions with ketoprofen suspension. Methods: Ketoprofen nanosuspension was formulated by milling method using a different polymer such as Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP) K-30 (F1), Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) (F2) and Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) (F3). Nanosuspensions were prepared and characterized, including organoleptic, pH, particle size, zeta potential, Polydispersity Index (PI), specific gravity, crystalline state determination, physical stability at room temperature for 3 mo, and in vitro dissolution test compared with ketoprofen suspension. Results: The ketoprofen nanosuspensions with PVP K-30 and PVA showed stable preparations, while those with HPMC showed less stability, as indicated by sedimentation during storage. The particle size values of PVP K-30 and PVA were 10.004±0.03 nm; and 9.560±0.01 nm; zeta potential and polydispersity index values met the test requirements. The dissolution rate of the ketoprofen nanosuspensions was higher with a cumulative of F1, F2, and F3 were 83.35%; 85.00%, and 81.09% after 60 min, while the ketoprofen suspension was only 7.62%. Conclusion: The milling method of ketoprofen nanosuspensions with PVP and PVA has more stable physical characteristics than nanosuspension with HPMC. The ketoprofen nanosuspensions have a higher dissolution rate than the ketoprofen suspension.

Tailoring of magnetite nanocomposite of carboxymethyl chitosan impregnated with iron (III) oxide for enhanced degradation of reactive blue 19 dye and inactivation of harmful microbes in wastewater

The study investigates the fabrication of an innovative nanocomposite composed of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCs) combined with different amounts of iron (III) oxide (Fe₂O₃) to boost dye degradation and antibacterial effectiveness. A top-down ball milling technique formed the nanocomposites and was extensively investigated for their structural, morphological, and functional features. The mean particle size of the 0.3Fe₂O₃/CMCs and 0.6Fe₂O₃/CMCs nanocomposites was 83.74 nm and 124.5 nm, respectively, with small polydispersity index (PdI) values suggesting satisfactory homogeneity. The adsorption effectiveness of Reactive Blue 19 (RB 19) dye was evaluated under different circumstances, with the 0.6Fe₂O₃/CMCs nanocomposite exhibiting the maximum adsorption capacity of 140 mg/g at an ideal pH of 5. Kinetic analyses indicated that the adsorption process adhered to a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The nanocomposites had significant bactericidal performance, with the 0.6Fe₂O₃/CMCs nanocomposite exhibiting the most extensive inhibition zones, particularly against E. coli (28.4 mm) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (23.2 mm). Furthermore, the reusability of the 0.6Fe₂O₃/CMCs nanocomposite was validated by five adsorption-desorption cycles, retaining over 90 % efficiency. The results underscore the efficacy of Fe₂O₃/CMCs nanocomposites as viable materials for wastewater treatment and antibacterial purposes, offering a promising approach for environmental remediation.

Comparative Study of Lycopene-Loaded Niosomes Prepared by Microfluidic and Thin-Film Hydration Techniques for UVB Protection and Anti-Hyperpigmentation Activity.

Niosomes are employed for their improved physical properties and stability and as a controlled delivery system. However, their large-scale production and different preparation methods affect their physical properties. The microfluidic method represents a novel approach to the preparation of niosomes that enables precise control and decreases the preparation time and steps compared to alternative methods. The UVB protection and anti-hyperpigmentation activities of lycopene-loaded niosomes prepared by microfluidic (MF) and novel conventional thin-film hydration (THF) methods were compared. Extract powders from tomatoes (T), carrots (C), and mixed red vegetables (MR) were utilized to prepare lycopene-rich extract-entrapped niosomes. The resulting niosome formulations were characterized by particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, FT-IR spectra, entrapment efficiency, lycopene-release profile, permeation, and stability. The lycopene extract-niosome formulations were evaluated for their potential to provide UVB protection to human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and for their anti-melanogenesis effects on B16F10 melanoma cells. The results indicated that niosomes prepared by the MF method exhibited high uniformity and homogeneity (reflected by a low PDI value) and maintained smaller sizes when processed through a chip utilizing a hydrodynamic flow-focusing (HFF) platform compared to THF niosomes. The release kinetics of all lycopene-niosome formulations followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. The FT-IR spectra indicated that lycopene was incorporated into the niosome bilaminar membrane. Moreover, niosomes obtained from MF demonstrated enhanced stability during heating-cooling cycles, along with high UVB protection and anti-melanogenesis effects. Therefore, these developed niosome preparation methods could be effectively applied to topical products.

Clarithromycin-tailored cubosome: A sustained release oral nano platform for evaluating antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory, anti-liver cancer, biocompatibility, ex-vivo and in-vivo studies

The clinical implication of clarithromycin (CLT) is compromised owing to its poor solubility and, subsequently, bioavailability, unpalatable taste, rapid metabolism, short half-life, frequent dosing, and adverse effects. The present investigation provides an innovative sustained-release oral drug delivery strategy that tackles these challenges. Accordingly, CLT was loaded into a cubosome, a vesicular system with a bicontinuous cubic structure that promotes solubility and bioavailability, provides a sustained release system combating short half-life and adverse effects, masks unpleasant taste, and protects the drug from destruction in gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Nine various formulas were fabricated using the emulsification method. The resulting vesicles increased the encapsulation efficiency (EE %) from 57.64 ± 0.04 % to 96.80 ± 1.50 %, the particle size (PS) from 147.30 ± 21.77 nm to 216.61 ± 5.37 nm, and the polydispersity index (PDI) values ranged from 0.117 ± 0.024 to 0.278 ± 0.073. The zeta potential (ZP) changed from −20.65 ± 2.01 mV to −33.98 ± 2.60 mV. Further, the release profile exhibited a dual release pattern within 24 h., with the percentage of cumulative release (CR %) expanding from 30.06 ± 0.42 % to 98.49 ± 2.88 %, optimized formula was found to be CC9 with EE % = 96.80 ± 1.50 %, PS = 216.61 ± 5.37 nm, ZP = −33.98 ± 2.60 mV, PDI = 0.117 ± 0.024, CR % = 98.49 ± 2.88 % and IC50 of 0.74 ± 0.19 µg/mL against HepG-2 cells with scattered unilamellar cubic non-agglomerated vesicles. Additionally, it exhibited higher anti-MRSA biofilm, relative bioavailability (2.8 fold), and anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial capacity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus compared to free CLT. Our data demonstrate that cubosome is a powerful nanocarrier for oral delivery of CLT, boosting its biological impacts and pharmacokinetic profile.

Augmented glycerosomes as a promising approach against fungal ear infection: Optimization and microbiological, ex vivo and in vivo assessments

In the current study, voriconazole (VCZ) augmented glycerosomes were optimized for topical otomycosis management according to a 23 factorial design, employing a thin film hydration method. By optimizing Glycerol volume, limonene: VCZ ratio and Span® 60: soybean phosphatidyl choline (PC) ratio, glycerosomes with maximum percentage entrapment efficiency (%EE) and zeta potential (ZP) and minimum vesicle size (VS) and polydispersity index (PDI) were to be obtained. An optimal augmented glycerosomal formula (OAG) that contained 10 mg VCZ, 150 mg PC, and 3 mL glycerol, comprising 2.5: and 0.92:1 ratios of the latter two independent variables, was proposed via numerical optimization. OAG exhibited high %EE and ZP values and acceptable low values for VS and PDI (84.3 ± 2.0 %, −38.8 ± 1.8 mV, 191.0 ± 1.1 nm, and 0.192 ± 0.01, respectively). Extensive in vitro testing of OAG revealed the entrapment of VCZ within OAG, biphasic in vitro release profile, stability for up to 3 months at 2–8 °C and spherical morphology of OAG with VS like that obtained via zetasizer. OAG demonstrated higher permeated amounts of VCZ and flux values than VCZ suspension, leading to an enhancement ratio of 2.56 in the ex vivo permeation study. The deeper penetration ability of OAG demonstrated by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and its superior in vitro antifungal activity confirmed the validity of the ex vivo study. Also, the histopathological study confirmed the safety of OAG for topical use, suggesting that VCZ OAG was a promising topical antimycotic formula.

Ultrasonic Fabrication of Catechin Nanoemulsions from Green Tea with Enhanced Stability and Antioxidant Activity Optimized by Box-Behnken Design

Nanoemulsions are emulsions, either O/W (oil in water) or W/O (water in oil), with droplet diameters typically ranging from 50 to 1,000 nm. Research indicates that nanoemulsions are highly effective in enhancing the bioavailability, bioactivity, digestibility, stability, safety, quality and sensory attributes of food components. The study aimed to determine the optimum formulation and ultrasonic condition for fabricating catechin nanoemulsion (Ca-NE) from green tea with improved physical stability and antioxidant activity using response surface methodology. The effects of Medium Chain Triglyceride oil concentration (7.5 - 12.5 % w/w), Tween® 80 concentration (1 - 5 % w/w) and sonication time (5 - 15 min) on the droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI) and antioxidant activity presented by DPPH value of the Ca-NE were investigated using Box-Behnken design (BBD). The results found that droplet size and antioxidant activity of the Ca-NE were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) affected by the proposed parameters, whereas the PDI value was slightly affected by those factors. The BBD results suggested that the Ca-NE fabrication condition was optimized with 7.5 % (w/w) oil concentration, 5 % (w/w) Tween® 80 concentration and a sonication time of 10.87 min. The optimum nanoemulsion showed good physical stability in terms of droplet size and PDI and had higher antioxidant activity than unencapsulated catechins when stored at 4 and 30 °C for 90 days. This study showed that catechin nanoemulsions fabricated by ultrasonication had good stability and antioxidant activity and, hence, had high potential for food and beverage applications in the food industry. HIGHLIGHTS The optimum nanoemulsion had good physical stability regarding droplet size and PDI when stored at 4 and 30 °C for 90 days. The ultrasonic fabrication of Ca-NE results in better retention of antioxidant activity than unencapsulated catechins. The ultrasonic fabrication provided the Ca-NE with good stability and high antioxidant activity. The results suggest that the obtained nanoemulsion of catechins has great potential in food or pharmaceutical applications. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Unlocking the wound healing potential of Anastatica hierochuntica L. (Kaff Maryam) Extract's nanosuspension: UPLC-MS/MS metabolic profiling, formulation development and statistical optimization

BackgroundAnastatica hierochuntica L. (Kaff Maryam) is a desert plant with documented therapeutic applications. Various medicinal uses have been reported for the plant extract such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective activities. The abundant plants constituents are promising and encourage the investigation of novel therapeutic uses. The principal objective of this study was to identify the bioactive constituents of A. hierochuntica (AH) by phytochemical profiling of its ethanolic extract, alongside an investigation of its wound healing efficacy after being formulated into nanosuspension for topical localized wound treatment. MethodA comprehensive metabolomics study of the ethanolic extract of A. hierochuntica aerial parts was assessed using UPLC MS/MS technique. Additionally, the preparation of AH nanosuspension was executed utilizing the antisolvent-precipitation method. A D-optimal experimental design was adopted to investigate the influence of variables such as: stabilizer ratio, antisolvent: solvent ratio, and stabilizer type on particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP). The design also was employed in the optimization process. The selected optimal formula was further assessed for size characteristics, morphological identification by TEM, storage stability, FTIR, cytocompatibility with human skin fibroblast (HSF), and scratch assay on HSF to assess wound healing aptitude. ResultsChemical profiling of the aerial parts revealed an abundance of glucosinolates, flavonoids, flavolignans, and fatty acids. The optimized AH-nanosuspension showed small particle size (128.87 ± 26 nm), small PDI (0.136 ± 0.05), and high ZP absolute value (−37.53 ± 0.52 mV). Furthermore, TEM photography of the optimal nanosuspension formula exhibited circular non-aggregating nanosized particles. FTIR confirmed the successful formulation of the AH ethanolic extract into nanosuspension with no physicochemical interactions. Additionally, AH-nanosuspension demonstrated cytocompatibility with HSF with IC50 = 58.317 μg/mL. Moreover, both AH pure extract and AH-nanosuspension exhibited a remarkable cell migration rate and wound closure % which propounds an auspicious wound healing potential. ConclusionThe study accentuates the supremacy of the nanosized delivery approach of AH aerial parts ethanolic extract and warrants further in-vivo investigations to establish its clinical utility for wound management.

Enhancing Herbal Efficacy: Synthesis and Evaluation of Nanosuspension from Withania somnifera Root Extract

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of mind, body, and spirit, drawing on ancient texts that highlight the medicinal properties of herbs like Withania somnifera, known for its wide range of therapeutic applications and pharmacological benefits. Commonly referred to as Indian ginseng or Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, demonstrates a variety of therapeutic effect , including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, sedative, hypnotic, deobstruent effects, narcotic, antioxidant, tonic, antistress, diuretic, aphrodisiac, immunomodulatory, and rejuvenating properties. Nanotechnology, particularly through the development of nanosuspensions, offers a significant advancement in medicine, addressing challenges like poor solubility and low bioavailability of lipophilic drugs. Nanosuspensions can enhance drug safety and efficacy by improving solubility and altering pharmacokinetics. Methods: This study focuses on formulating and characterizing a nanosuspension using an ethanolic extract of Withania somnifera roots. The nanosuspension (NSWS) underwent comprehensive characterization, utilizing techniques such as FT-IR spectroscopy, particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, polydispersity index (PDI) assessment, Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction analysis, pH measurement, and stability testing. This study seeks to explore the potential of nanosuspensions, aiming to integrate nanotechnology with herbal medicine to improve the safety and efficacy of herbal formulations. Results: The nanosuspension (NSWS) shown particle size about 133.09 nm, and its uniform particle distribution was indicated by a Polydispersity Index (PDI) about 0.27. Stability and uniformity were further supported by the zeta potential, particle size, and PDI values. Conclusion: Nanosuspension formulations represents a versatile strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of hydrophobic drugs across various routes of administration. Keywords: Withania somnifera, Nanosuspension, Characterization, FT-IR, PDI, FESEM

Characterization and antibacterial application of peppermint essential oil nanoemulsions in broiler

In order to mitigate the risk of antibiotic resistance in poultry, scientists nowadays consider plant secondary metabolites to be a major organic antibacterial substitute. This study aimed to characterize and investigate the in silico, in vitro, and in vivo antibacterial effects of peppermint essential oil (PEO) in the form of a nanoemulsion (NE), termed PEONE. Menthol as a major compound of PEO has been identified by gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy (GCMS) analysis as 32.3 %, while lower droplet size, polydispersity Index (PDI), and optimum zeta potential values depicted the stability of PEONE have been observed and validated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrograph image. In silico antibacterial activity was studied by molecular docking of menthol and enrofloxacin with Topoisomerase IV protein (PDB: 1s16;) of Escherichia coli K12 MG1655 and this effect was validated by in vitro and in vivo analysis. In vitro analysis, sustained release of PEONE has been observed against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In this study for in vivo experiments (n = 90) day-old broiler chicks were distributed into 6 dietary treatments with 5 replicates of 3 birds per replication. Dietary treatments included 1) Negative control (basal diet), 2) Positive control (basal diet + 200 µl enrofloxacin), 3) 25 µl PEONE + basal diet, 4) 50 µl PEONE + basal diet, 5) 75 µl PEONE + basal diet, and 6) 100 µl PEONE + basal diet. Analyzed data by different statistical tools confirmed that PEONE significantly affected body weight gain (BWG) with an improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group. A significant increase in cecal Lactobacillus count and a decrease in total coliform was observed. Positive effects on physiological parameters, visceral organs, and meat quality characteristics have been observed. In conclusion, our experiments suggest that PEONE can be used in the broiler industry as a substitute for antibiotics to minimize bacterial resistance.

Preparation and evaluation the effects of retinoic acid loaded proliposomal nanofibers on microbial biofilm inhibition

The electrospinning method involves the production of different drug delivery systems using various polymers. The production of proliposomes with electrospinning provides the hybridization of two novel drug delivery systems. Retinoic acid, also known as all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), is a common and effective drug for acne therapy. This study aimed to prepare ATRA-loaded proliposomal nanofibers and evaluate their effectiveness on microbial biofilm inhibition. Blank and ATRA-loaded proliposomal nanofiber formulations were fabricated in various polyvinylpyrrolidone, phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol ratios. TEM images verified the rapid formation of the liposomes after the hydration of nanofibers. The vesicle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential values of self-assembled liposomes were measured. The vesicle size values were found to be 321.9–363.8 nm with PDI values varying between 0.332 and 0.511 and zeta potential values of (−16.8) to (−20.5)mV. ATRA-loaded proliposomal nanofibers provided higher bioadhesion (0.25 mJ/cm2) than the commercial cream (0.07 mJ/cm2). The short-term stability results showed that the initial characteristics remained for three months at 4 °C. The proposed ATRA-loaded self-assembled proliposomal system provided antibacterial, fungistatic or fungicidal effects superior to retinoic acid itself and inhibited biofilm formation in lower concentrations. This approach can combine the stability advantage of nanofibers in the dry state with the high effectiveness of liposomes in acne treatment presenting antibacterial and anti-biofilm-forming activity against Candida albicans and Cutibacterium acnes.

A structural, magnetic and colloidal stability study of uncoated and silica coated iron oxide samples prepared in two different surfactants

The discovery of new magnetic materials of interest in the biomedicine field is a relevant topic in current research. For years, our research group has been investigating the obtaining and study of nanostructured magnetic samples that behave superparamagnetically to enable their transport in living organisms. We present here a study that summarizes the structural characteristics, magnetic behavior and stability of two Fe3O4 samples synthesized by coprecipitation that were dispersed using two different surfactants (oleylamine, OL, and oleic acid, OA), and two others prepared from the previous ones by reaction with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). The relationships between the surfactant used in the synthesis, the presence of a certain maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) content, the influence of silica shell thickness and magnetic behaviour of all samples were systematically studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy and H vs. M loops. Rietveld refinements of the XRD profiles confirmed a partial oxidation of the non-silica-coated samples and FTIR spectra of the uncoated samples showed a very strong broad metal-oxygen band and additional sets of bands from the different organic chains of the two surfactants. Individual particles with a mean diameter of 7 and 9 nm were distinguished in TEM images of uncoated magnetic samples. Mössbauer data indicated the presence of non-stoichiometric magnetite in all samples, in agreement with XRD refinements. Magnetic measurements confirmed the superparamagnetic behavior of all the samples. Highest negative zeta potential values are found for the silica covered samples in both acidic and basic medium, being Fe3O4-AO@SiO2 the best suited for the purposes of its dispersibility in future applications. Low polydispersity index (PDI) values confirmed the best stability and dispersibility of all samples investigated in tetrahydrofuran (THF).

Antimicrobial activity of Zn-nanoparticles synthesized by leaf extract of Capparis spinosa

In the last 2 decades, nanotechnology has developed significantly. It is now easy to perform materials reduction to a nano size called nanoparticles (NPs). One significant development is the use of plant extracts containing phytochemical compounds as reducing agent. Capparis spinosa, a shrub plant, was used in the synthesis of zinc oxide and iron oxide NPs. Synthesis and characterization of ZnONPs by consumed phytochemical compounds of C.spinosa leaf extract was performed. Synthesize ZnONPs from the aqueous leaf extract and characterize them using FT-IR, DLS and STEM and investigate the antimicrobial activity of NPs using agar well diffusion and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The aqueous leaf extract of C.spinosa contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannin, phenol and saponin. FT-IR analysis showed peaks in C spinosa extract and ZnONPs spectra where different functional groups with unique peaks for ZnONPs were detected indicating the formation of specific bonds. DLS spectroscopy revealed polydispersity index (PDI) values of 0.638 for ZnONPs and STEM images for ZnONPs showed irregular NPs with sizes ranging from 33.75 to 89.14 nm. Antimicrobial test by agar well diffusion showed an inhibition zone of ZnONPs against all test microbial genera except C. glabrata and higher effect was against P.vulgaris with diameter of inhibition zone equal to 15.5± 0.7 mm. The MIC values of ZnONPs against P.vulgaris and C.Kruesi were the same (0.25mg/ml) while S.aureus, S.pyogens and C.glabrata showed less MIC value (0.125mg/ml). In conclusion, green synthesized ZnONPs showed an antimicrobial effect on skin associated microbial which can be adopted and developed with the aim of using it as an alternative to completely chemically synthesized antibiotics.

Comparison of free vs. liposomal naringenin in white adipose tissue browning in C57BL/6j mice

Naringenin may play a role in browning by increasing thermogenic gene expression. In this study, we encapsulated naringenin using a liposomal formulation and examined the effects of both free and liposomal naringenin on white adipose tissue browning in C57BL6/J mice. In the first phase of the study, naringenin was encapsulated by the liposome method, which is biocompatible and biodegradable. The physical and chemical properties of liposomal naringenin were tested. In the second phase, a total of 48 six-week-old mice were divided into two main groups: prevention and recovery. Each main group was divided into four subgroups: nano-naringenin, void, free-naringenin, and control. The prevention group received a high-fat diet for 10 weeks along with weekly intravenous injections of 20 µM naringenin. On the other hand, the recovery group was first subjected to a high-fat diet for 10 weeks, followed by an additional 10 weeks of the same diet, along with weekly intravenous injections of 20 µM naringenin. Body weight was measured once per week, and brown adipose tissue, inguinal white adipose tissue, and serum samples were collected from each mouse. The mean particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential values of liposomal naringenin were ∼207 nm, 0.35, and −27 mV, respectively. The encapsulation and loading efficiencies of liposomal naringenin were 94.6 and 19.2%, respectively. Liposomal naringenin exhibited sustained-release behavior, while free naringenin showed a burst-release profile. Liposomal naringenin showed the best physical stability in light and at 4 °C, while free naringenin was more chemically stable in light and at 4 and 22 °C. Free and liposomal naringenin did not significantly reduce weight gain. In the prevention group, liposomal naringenin increased PRDM16 gene expression in inguinal white adipose tissue 4.29 times more than free naringenin (p = 0.010). However, neither formulation significantly altered the expression levels of other browning or adipogenesis markers in the tissues. The results suggest that free naringenin can be efficiently encapsulated in biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticles. Further research is needed to better understand the physiological effects of liposomal naringenin.

Ethanolic Cashew Leaf Extract Encapsulated in Tripolyphosphate–Chitosan Complexes: Characterization, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Activities

Ethanolic cashew leaf extract (ECL-E) is rich in phenolic compounds and shows remarkable antioxidative and antimicrobial activities. Encapsulation could stabilize ECL-E as the core. Tripolyphosphate (TPP)–chitosan (CS) nanoparticles were used to load ECL-E, and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized. The nanoparticles loaded with ECL-E at different levels showed differences in encapsulation efficiency (47.62–89.47%), mean particle diameters (47.30–314.60 nm), positive zeta potentials (40.37–44.24 mV), and polydispersity index values (0.20–0.56). According to scanning electron micrographs, the nanoparticles had a spherical or ellipsoidal shape, and a slight agglomeration was observed. The appropriate ratio of CS/ECL-E was 1:3, in which an EE of 89.47%, a particle size of 256.05 ± 7.70 nm, a zeta potential of 40.37 ± 0.66 mV, and a PDI of 0.22 ± 0.05 were obtained. The nanoparticles also exhibited high antioxidant activities, as assayed by DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Low minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9.38, 75.00 mg/mL) and Shewanella putrefaciens (4.69, 75.00 mg/mL). In addition, ECL-E loaded in nanoparticles could maintain its bioactivities under various light intensities (1000–4000 Lux) for 48 h. Some interactions among TPP, CS, and ECL-E took place, as confirmed by FTIR analysis. These nanoparticles had the increased storage stability and could be used for inactivating spoilage bacteria and retarding lipid oxidation in foods.